The Arts and Culture Forum of East Devon District Council convened on 12 June 2024 to discuss updates to the Forum's constitution, the progress of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund Cultural Programme, and various cultural initiatives and projects within the district. Key decisions included endorsing the Cultural Producer’s report and recommending changes to the Forum's terms of reference to the Cabinet.

Arts and Culture Forum Constitution Update

The Assistant Director for Countryside and Leisure proposed minor amendments to the Arts and Culture Forum Constitution to reflect increased activities from the adoption of East Devon’s Cultural Strategy 2022-2031. The changes aimed to ensure the Forum had oversight of the delivery plan and funding bid applications. The development of the Arts and Culture East Devon (ACED) Network since 2021/22 was also highlighted, which has provided a stronger platform for community engagement in creative arts. The Forum recommended these changes to the Cabinet.

UK Shared Prosperity Fund Cultural Programme

The Cultural Producer presented a report summarising the first year of outputs from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UK SPF) cultural programme. This three-year programme supports the delivery of East Devon’s Cultural Strategy 2022-2031 and the Council Plan 2021-2023. The programme focuses on eight core themes, including strengthening the community, protecting the environment, and growing cultural tourism. Specific attention was given to training sessions on fundraising, marketing, and volunteer recruitment. The Forum endorsed the report and praised the successful delivery of the year one outputs.

South West Museums Development

Victoria Harding, Programme Manager for South West Museum Development, provided an overview of regional and national museum statistics for 2022/23. The majority of museums in the south west are small-medium, independently run, and volunteer-led. The Programme Manager detailed support provided to local museums, including accreditation support and grant application assistance. The Wild Escape project, aimed at engaging young people with the natural environment through museum activities, was also discussed. The Forum congratulated the Programme Manager on securing Arts Council England funding for 2024-26.

Villages in Action Presentation

Although Mair George, Creative Director of Villages in Action, was unable to attend, the Forum noted the highlights from March-October 2023. These included £4,385 in box office takings in East Devon, 503 audience members, and six hosted events.

UK Shared Prosperity Fund Culture and Leisure and Tourism Fund Update

The Management Information Officer updated the Forum on the UK Shared Prosperity Fund Culture and Leisure and Tourism Fund. This grant scheme provided nearly £190,000 to community groups and tourism businesses for decarbonisation efforts. A total of 38 applications were received, with 20 community groups awarded over £117,000. The Forum was informed that £320,000 would be available next year for similar initiatives.

Thelma Hulbert Gallery Presentation

Gemma Girvan, Manager and Curator of the Thelma Hulbert Gallery (THG), presented the highlights of 2023, including record sales and visitor figures, successful funding applications, and extensive community engagement. The THG’s alignment with the East Devon Cultural Strategy was emphasised, and the 2024 Process and Places Programme was outlined. The Forum praised the THG for its contributions to arts and culture in the district.

Manor Pavilion Theatre Update

Graham Whitlock, Manor Pavilion Theatre Manager, reported on the successful 10th year of the Paul Taylor Mills Summer Season, which attracted over 10,000 attendees. The theatre has adapted its marketing strategy and programme to meet changing audience demands. The future of the theatre was described as positive, with a diverse range of performances planned for 2024.

Wild East Devon Update

James Chubb, Countryside Team Leader, provided an update on the Wild Honiton project and other countryside events. The project has seen significant public engagement, with 42 events held since March 2023 and over 700 attendees. The Seaton Wetlands project was highlighted for its success, including a 40% uplift in footfall following media coverage. The Forum praised the Countryside Service for its ambitious nature recovery plans and community engagement efforts.